Akosombo Travel Guide: Lake Volta, Cruises and Things to Do

Akosombo Travel Guide: Lake Volta, Cruises and Things to Do

Akosombo is one of Ghana's most scenic and relaxing destinations.

Located in the Eastern Region, the town is closely associated with the Akosombo Dam and Lake Volta and is surrounded by hills, water and beautiful views.

It is a good choice for couples, families, groups and travellers looking for a peaceful escape from Accra.

> Travel note: Boat cruises, resort access, attraction opening times and road conditions can change. Confirm arrangements directly with operators before travelling.

Why Visit Akosombo?

Akosombo is ideal for travellers who enjoy water, scenery and a slower pace.

The destination works well for:

• Weekend trips
• Couples
• Families
• Group travel
• Scenic drives
• Boat cruises
• Riverside dining
• Relaxation
• Photography

Lake Volta

Lake Volta is one of the biggest reasons people visit Akosombo.

The lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world by surface area and plays a major role in Ghana's electricity generation, transport and fishing.

The landscape around the lake is especially attractive because of the surrounding hills and wide views across the water.

Why enjoy Lake Volta?

• Scenic views
• Boat rides
• Photography
• Relaxation
• Riverside restaurants
• Resort stays

Yello Tip

If you are visiting mainly for a boat cruise, arrange it before leaving Accra so you do not arrive and find that there is no suitable departure available.

Akosombo Dam

The Akosombo Dam is one of Ghana's most important infrastructure landmarks.

It was built across the Volta River and created Lake Volta.

Visitors may be able to view the dam area depending on current access arrangements and security restrictions.

Yello Tip

Do not assume full access to the dam is always available.

Confirm current visitor arrangements before travelling if seeing the dam is an important part of your trip.

Boat Cruises

Boat cruises are one of the most popular ways to experience the Akosombo area.

Depending on the operator, cruises may include:

• Short sightseeing trips
• Group cruises
• Private cruises
• Sunset experiences
• Food and drinks
• Events and celebrations

Why take a boat cruise?

• See Lake Volta from the water
• Enjoy mountain and riverside views
• Relax with friends or family
• Take photographs
• Celebrate special occasions

Yello Tip

Ask about departure time, duration, life jackets, food, drinks and whether advance booking is required.

Riverside Resorts and Hotels

Akosombo and nearby areas have several riverside and lakeside properties.

Some visitors travel specifically to spend the day at a resort, enjoy lunch by the water or stay overnight.

Depending on the property, you may find:

• Restaurants
• Swimming pools
• River views
• Boat activities
• Outdoor seating
• Gardens
• Accommodation

Yello Tip

If you are visiting a resort only for the day, confirm whether day visitors are accepted and whether a reservation or minimum spend applies.

Scenic Drives

The drive into Akosombo can be part of the experience.

The surrounding hills and changing landscape make the area feel very different from Accra.

This makes Akosombo a good destination for travellers who enjoy road trips without needing to travel extremely far.

How Long Does It Take to Drive from Accra to Akosombo?

Allow roughly 2 to 2½ hours depending on:

• Your starting point in Accra
• Traffic
• Road conditions
• Stops
• Time of departure

Travel times can be longer during busy periods.

Yello Tip

Leave Accra early if you are planning a same-day return so you can enjoy the area without rushing.

Can Akosombo Be Done as a Day Trip?

Yes.

Akosombo works very well as a day trip from Accra.

A simple day can include:

• Morning departure from Accra
• Riverside or lakeside lunch
• Boat cruise
• Scenic drive
• Relaxation at a resort
• Return to Accra in the evening

If you want a slower experience, staying overnight is even better.

Suggested One-Day Akosombo Itinerary

A relaxed day could look like this:

1. Leave Accra in the morning

2. Arrive in Akosombo

3. Enjoy breakfast or a drink by the water

4. Take a boat cruise

5. Have lunch

6. Relax at a riverside property

7. Enjoy the scenery

8. Return to Accra before it gets too late

Suggested Overnight Trip

Day 1

• Travel from Accra
• Check into your accommodation
• Have lunch
• Take a boat cruise
• Relax by the water
• Stay overnight

Day 2

• Enjoy breakfast
• Explore the surrounding area
• Spend more time by the lake
• Return to Accra later in the day

An overnight stay makes the trip feel much more relaxed.

Best for Couples

Akosombo works particularly well for couples looking for a quiet escape.

The combination of:

• Water views
• Resorts
• Boat cruises
• Restaurants
• Mountain scenery

makes it suitable for birthdays, anniversaries or simple weekend trips.

Best for Families and Groups

Families and groups can also enjoy Akosombo.

Before booking activities, confirm:

• Number of passengers
• Child policies
• Boat capacity
• Resort rules
• Food arrangements
• Activity availability

Self-Drive or Chauffeured?

Both options work well for Akosombo.

Choose self-drive if:

• You want flexibility
• You enjoy road trips
• You want to make extra stops
• You prefer travelling at your own pace
• You are comfortable driving outside Accra

Choose a chauffeured vehicle if:

• You want to relax during the journey
• You are unfamiliar with the route
• You plan to drink at your destination
• You are travelling with family or friends
• You do not want to drive back after a full day

Choosing the Right Vehicle

The best vehicle depends on your group size and plans.

Sedan

A sedan may be suitable for:

• Couples
• Solo travellers
• Small groups
• Light luggage

SUV

An SUV may be more comfortable for:

• Families
• Longer stays
• Additional luggage
• Travellers who prefer extra space

Van or Larger Vehicle

A larger vehicle may be better for:

• Group trips
• Families
• Corporate outings
• Celebrations
• Several passengers

What to Take With You

Consider carrying:

• Drinking water
• Sunscreen
• Hat or sunglasses
• Phone charger
• Power bank
• Identification
• Swimwear if your destination allows swimming
• Light clothing
• Small amount of cash

Planning Your Akosombo Trip

Before travelling:

1. Confirm your boat cruise

2. Confirm resort access

3. Check current activity prices

4. Check the weather

5. Plan your departure time

6. Confirm accommodation if staying overnight

7. Allow extra time for traffic

8. Keep your schedule flexible

Explore available vehicles or book with a driver for your Akosombo trip.

*Travel information can change. Boat operations, resort access, activity availability, road conditions and opening times should be confirmed before travelling.*